The Ford’s Theatre Legacy Commissions: A First Look at Ford's Theatre

In its fourth edition, Ford’s Theatre new plays festival, A First Look will showcase readings of three works currently in development. The free, two-day festival gives audiences a rare opportunity to witness the development of new historical dramas. The festival offers stage readings of the plays and allows for a closer look into the creation of stories and characters steep in history. Audiences attending the festival have seen firsthand the process of the playwrights and experienced the evolution of the work from first draft to a world premiere production on our historic stage. The 2026 festival will showcase readings of three works currently in development.

A First Look features new works that explore historically significant events and figures that have contributed to the fabric of America and serves as the showcase to Ford’s Theatre Legacy Commissions. The initiative is an artistic incubator for new works that illuminate the stories of lesser-known individuals whose courage and perseverance helped shape the ongoing pursuit of civil rights and equality in America. The 2026 festival will showcase the following plays:

• Springs by Jeanne Sakata and directed by Jessica Kubzansky;
• Providence Spring by Richard Hellesen and directed by Holly Twyford; and 
• Young John Lewis: Prodigy of Protest with book and lyrics by Psalmayene 24, music by Kokayi and directed by Reginald L. Douglas.

Senior Artistic Advisor Sheldon Epps, Director of Artistic Programming José Carrasquilloand The Ford’s Theatre Legacy Commissions Advisor Sydné Mahonelead the initiative. Learn more about each play below. 

Meet and Mingle: A First Look audience members are invited to continue the conversation during an intimate post-show gathering following the Saturday, January 17, 7 p.m. reading. Meet the A First Look Festival playwrights, members of the creative team and mingle with fellow theater enthusiasts. Explore the inspiration, themes and writing process behind these new works as the creatives share their thoughts and questions in a casual, engaging setting.